Saturday, March 15, 2008

Being Plus Size Doesn't Limit Your Choices

Clothes shopping can be a chore, and even more so if you're a plus sized woman. No matter what size you are, developing a shopping strategy before you hit the mall is a good idea. If you are looking for clothes that fit well and you're a plus size, this goes double for you! So take a look at the few tips below and make sure that you're a best dressed gal this winter.

First, there's a good chance that you've been told to stick to dark colors like black, gray and maroon, but this is not really the case. Cut will always beat color in terms of importance when it comes to looking good, so when it boils down to it, a well-cut outfit in tangerine orange will look just as good as one in charcoal gray. Make sure that the outfits you are wearing aren't just composed of tubes; look for a taper around the waist and hips, depending on your build and make sure that above all, you clothing is comfortable. Similarly, make sure that no matter what you wear, you feel good in it.

Not all body types look good in the same style of clothes. Oftentimes, "plus-sized" lines of apparel are only oversized versions of their garments for smaller women. The sad reality is that these clothes were designed with the smaller woman in mind, and frequently do not have the same flattering effect on the plus size girl. Stand in front of your mirror and decide what features you'd like to accentuate, rather than what you'd like to disguise. If you have voluptuous curves, pick styles of clothing that enhance them. Wide-hipped women should opt for curvy A-line skirts rather than broomstick skirts. When shopping for skirts, be conscious of hem length. Skirts that fall at your calf will shorten the appearance of your legs, but floor- or knee-length skirts will flatter.

When going out in the winter, remember that layering is your friend. One way to stay warm and look great is to layer several thinner tops on top of one another. Avoid the bulky sweater or pull over and instead layer a long sleeved stretch top under a snappy short sleeved shirt for casual wear. The thinner layers will cling to you to provide better warmth while maintaining an attractive silhouette. Look for clothes that mix and match well, and you'll have plenty of options all winter.

Remember that shopping for plus sized clothing doesn't mean that you have to be stuck wearing something that fits you poorly or is unattractive on you.

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